Kelley (Peterson) Lawson

High School Graduate of 2009

Sophomore attending North Central Texas College

Editor-in-Chief 2009, newspaper

College 101:

1. Registering for Classes: At most colleges and universities, there are three basic types, or categories, of classes a student can take: online, on-campus and hybrid classes. Most, if not all, incoming freshmen will register for classes online through his or her school’s website once they complete freshmen orientation. There are many “sections” of a specific class within a college or university, and the website will specify what category each class is under, so pay attention! Online classes provide more freedom and allow a student to work around their schedule. On-campus classes require a student to attend class on time and meet more specific and concrete deadlines. Hybrid classes combine the two alternatives, but are not ideal since they tend to be much less organized than a traditional classroom. In my experience, it is best to choose either an online or on-campus class, depending on learning styles, as a freshman until the student is able to get a “feel” for their college environment.

2. Social Life: College is an entirely new atmosphere filled with unique experiences. From the Greek life of sororities and fraternities to the social life of parties and new people, college is a memory most students never forget. However, parents do not appreciate failing grades and wasted money, so do not procrastinate! If an online assignment is due by midnight on Friday, get it done beforehand for three reasons:

1. There will be a party or event to attend.
2. You will have to make a decision to either fail the assignment or not go out.
3. Finally, if you choose to go out and fail the assignment, you will stress about it all night and not have any fun!

3. Stress: Life’s tough, get a helmet! It is crucial that an incoming freshman not lose sight of the goal. College is fun, challenging and stressful all at the same time. Everyday is a new journey, but when tomorrow comes, you cannot relive yesterday. Many freshmen, including myself, lose themselves in the whirlwind of stress and decide to take a semester off. Bad idea! Students guilty of quitting will lose track of time and eventually find themselves on the outside looking in. Do not give up on dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon, CEO of a mega corporation or even a small town restaurant owner just because school is difficult or stressful. Build a life to be proud of and happy with. After all, when the ten-year high school reunion comes around, you will want a life to brag about!